Restorative Dentistry![]() Dental FillingDental fillings are the best way to restore minor to moderate instances of tooth decay. Most fillings these days consist of a material known as composite resin. Composite resin is an aesthetically-pleasing material that we color-match to the existing shade of your enamel. For this reason, a composite filling is virtually indistinguishable from the rest of your tooth. Dental CrownA dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that improves the structure and cosmetics of a damaged or decayed tooth. During the procedure, your tooth must be completely reshaped to accommodate the shape of the crown. Once the tooth is reshaped, we will permanently bond the crown to the enamel using a special adhesive. Many crowns are fabricated these days with porcelain, due to its unmatched aesthetics. Dental BridgeA dental bridge is a tooth replacement that typically consists of two dental crowns linked together by a pontic, or false tooth. A traditional bridge is supported by the two surrounding teeth, known as abutment teeth, that we reshape to receive the crowns. A bridge can also be supported by a series of dental implants if multiple adjacent teeth are missing. If you are missing a tooth, a bridge will prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of their proper position. Dental ImplantA dental implant is a small titanium post that we surgically place into the jawbone. The implant serves as the root component of a prosthetic tooth. Once the implant is in place, it will fuse to the bone during the process of osseointegration. Osseointegration allows the implant to support a restoration against the strongest forces of your bite. For this reason, dental implants are widely considered to be the next best thing to your natural teeth. All on 4At Shull Family Dentistry, we specialize in several full-arch replacement options for patients missing all or most of their teeth. One of our most common treatments is All on 4, a complete fixed bridge supported by a series of dental implants. This immensely beneficial treatment concept has revolutionized the way we replace missing teeth. DenturesA denture is a removable appliance that is usually used to replace one or more missing teeth. A partial denture usually attaches to the surrounding teeth with metal clasps. A complete denture consists of a flesh-colored acrylic base that supports a complete arch of prosthetic teeth. We offer custom-fit dentures as a more comfortable, functional, and durable solution. Inlays and OnlaysInlays and onlays are ideal for areas of decay too large for a filling, but not large enough to require the placement of a dental crown. The restoration is considered an inlay if it is placed within the occlusal (bite) surface of a tooth. The restoration is considered an onlay if it extends beyond one or more of the occlusal cusps. Tooth ExtractionThere are two types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical. We perform a simple extraction on a tooth that has already erupted above the gumline. We perform a surgical extraction on a tooth that has become impacted, or has yet to erupt, such as wisdom teeth. Extraction may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection and other complications. How Missing Teeth Can Change Your LifeMissing teeth can substantially impact an individual's quality of life and lead to many problems. People with missing teeth should not refrain from getting replacements, as this can lead to severe issues such as gum disease and cause tooth misalignment over time. Effects of Tooth LossTooth loss can have a detrimental impact on an individual's appearance and health, as well as their self-esteem. Although one may not be conscious of the effects of tooth loss immediately after losing a tooth, the full extent of the impact of tooth loss may emerge over time. Thankfully you can avoid all the negative effects of missing teeth with the help of dental implants. Scientists have developed devices like a single tooth implant for a single missing tooth and multiple tooth implants to replace multiple missing teeth. Schedule an AppointmentTo learn more about our restorative services call 503-362-5019, and schedule your appointment now! |
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